NOW wants Cable suspended

The National Organization for Women called on the Oakland Raiders to suspend Coach Tom Cable while the team investigates allegations that he has a history of violent behavior toward women.

NOW President Terry O’Neill praised the Raiders in a statement for undertaking a “serious evaluation” of charges made by Cable’s first wife, Sandy Cable, and former girlfriend Marie Lutz that the coach physically abused them at various times during their relationships.

But she said that Cable should be suspended while that investigation proceeds. The Raiders had no comment.

“This is the National Football League. Boys and girls around the country, as well as many women, look to the leaders of the NFL as our role models,” O’Neill said in a phone interview. “Why would the NFL tolerate having a man who admits to having battered his wife?”

Cable has acknowledged striking Sandy Cable with an open hand more than 20 years ago and said it was the only time he’s ever touched a woman inappropriately. Lutz accused Cable of assaulting her as recently as last January, but Cable has said he was cleared by police in that case.

Colts’ Jackson out

A person with knowledge of the injury said Indianapolis Colts cornerback Marlin Jackson will miss the rest of the season after tearing a ligament in his left knee. The person spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Colts had not announced the injury. It occurred during Thursday’s practice.

The injury was first reported by ESPN and the Indianapolis Star. Jackson made 23 consecutive starts at cornerback before tearing the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his right knee during a no-contact practice in October 2008.

Clark in question

Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark is usually one of the team’s most talkative players. But he is talking little as it becomes increasingly likely he won’t play Monday in Denver because of a rare blood condition that nearly killed him after he played in the high altitude there two years ago.

Nearly all of Clark’s teammates are urging him to skip the game.

The other Steelers safeties are being readied to play, and Clark does not appear as upbeat or as excited as he normally does before a game.

Etc.

The Washington Redskins will use their fourth punter this season when they play Atlanta on Sunday. Hunter Smith’s right groin injury is acting up again, so the team plans to sign former Dallas punter Sam Paulescu today. . . . Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck practiced a day after resting his broken ribs.